How to Write a Problem Statement in a Thesis/Dissertation

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 What is a Problem Statement?

A thesis/dissertation problem statement is a clear, concise, and specific articulation of an issue or concern that a study aims to address. It communicates the purpose of the research, establishes the context, and guides the direction of the study. A well-formulated problem statement helps both experts and non-experts understand why the research is being conducted and what gap it seeks to fill.

However, writing a clear and impactful problem statement remains a challenge for many researchers. When not properly written, it confuses the reader and obscures the intent of the study.

A strong problem statement should:
  • Identify the issue or gap in knowledge.
  • Be specific, evidence-based, and relevant to the field of study.
  • Clearly convey why the problem matters and what the research will aim to explore or solve.
What is a “Problem” in Research?

The world is full of problems, but not all problems make suitable research problems—especially for academic research like theses or dissertations. 

A good research problem must be:
  • Specific and focused (not too broad).
  • Grounded in real-world evidence.
  • Relevant and researchable within the scope of the study.
Associated with significant negative consequences for certain groups, organizations, or systems.

Example of a well-defined research problem:

“Only 6% of CEOs in Fortune 500 companies are women” (Center for Leadership Studies, 2019).

This is a specific, measurable, real-world issue with broader implications for gender equity in leadership.

Structure of a Good Problem Statement

A helpful way to structure a problem statement is by using four elements:

Theme                            Description
Ideally                    Describe the desired or ideal situation in your area of study.
Reality                    Present the actual situation that contradicts the ideal.
Consequences         Explain the negative effects of the gap between ideal and real conditions.
Aim                         State what the study intends to explore or solve.


Examples of Problem Statements
Example 1: Weight Loss
Ideally                People who exercise regularly should lose weight.

Reality                Many individuals who exercise consistently still fail to lose weight.

Consequences    This often leads to discouragement, decreased motivation, and increased rates of                                     obesity.

Aim                    To explore why some people who exercise regularly do not achieve significant weight                             loss.


Example 2: Effectiveness of Early Warning Systems (EWS) for Flood Preparedness
Ideally                Early Warning Systems should inform communities early enough to prepare and                                       evacuate safely before floods.

Reality                In many flood-prone areas, people do not receive timely alerts from the EWS.

Consequences     This delay leads to increased loss of life, property, and displacement.

Aim                     To assess whether flood Early Warning Systems are effectively reaching the intended                                 communities on time.

Conclusion
A well-written problem statement is the backbone of any good research study. It defines the gap, frames the research question, and justifies why the study matters. Using the “Ideal–Reality–Consequence–Aim” model can help researchers systematically present the problem in a compelling way.

Before moving forward with your proposal, ensure your problem statement is:
  • Rooted in reality and data,
  • Focused and actionable,
  • Clearly tied to a research aim.
This clarity not only strengthens your proposal but also ensures that your readers, reviewers, and stakeholders understand the value and impact of your work.

For more Read:
https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/383/1/383.pdf 

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